As we enter into 2014, many of us are depressed about what we did not accomplish or realize in regard to our personal dreams in 2013. I want to encourage you to shake off your grief, depression and negative thinking and hold on to your dreams. Why? Your dreams count.

They will become a reality if you first believe in your dreams and then commit yourselves to hard work and perseverance.

The famous American poet, Langston Hughes, wrote in his poem, entitled Dreams:

"Hold fast to dreams For if dreams die Life is a broken-winged bird That cannot fly. Hold fast to dreams For when dreams go Life is a barren field Frozen with snow."

Dreams are about seeing, being, believing and brokering what seems impossible. Walt Disney, who created Disney World and Disney Land, was a dreamer. Through one inclusive dream, he has created a worldwide tourist attraction for couples, families, friends and foes. Nothing great happens in life without a dream, first.

Yes, your dreams count for transformation, peace, hope, joy, unity and success. Through Transform Rockford, our region is embarking on a dream to positively change our environment - socially, economically and physically. In order for that vision to become a reality, we need to include the dreams of all the citizens of Rockford and vicinity. That means you!

I want to encourage all citizens to get off the sofa, come out of your homes and attend one of the many visioning sessions that Transform Rockford will be hosting to hear and record your dreams. The first session begins at noon Monday at Orton Keyes.

During my eight plus years in Rockford, this is the first time that I have seen a regionwide effort to ask citizens, "What are your dreams to transform our region?" Wow, what an opportunity to tell interested people what you think and how you dream.

Your dream is inspiring. Your dream is specific. Your dream is personal. Your dream is your reality. Please take advantage of this perhaps, once in a lifetime chance to be heard.

Please check out the locations for all of the upcoming visioning sessions on transformrockford.org website, local television news broadcasts and this newspaper. Bring your spouse, friend, family and neighbor with you. It is critical that Transform Rockford volunteers receive dreaming input from everyone.

In life, we do not receive what we deserve. We receive what we are willing to negotiate. Let us collectively dream big dreams and negotiate a bright future for our region and our children.

I am blessed to partner with so many talented, passionate and committed citizens who daily volunteer to serve countless hours to move the process of Transform Rockford forward. They are holding fast to their dreams of seeing our region move from the bowels of American society to be the head and shoulders for a vibrant, inclusive community.

Page 2 of 2 - On Jan. 20 the U.S. will celebrate the birthday of America's greatest dreamer, The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was willing to die so that his dream could become a reality and live through us. Dare to dream and dare to live out your dream by sharing it with others. I look forward in seeing you at one of Transform Rockford's visioning (dream) sessions. Your dream is invited, welcomed and will be counted.

The Rev. Dr. Kenneth Board is the senior pastor of Pilgrim Baptist Church of Rockford and an adjunct seminary professor at Northern Seminary in Lombard. If you would like to comment, email opinions@rrstar.com.